Volumetric weight is the theoretical weight calculated from your cargo’s volume, and it is the reason a big, light package pays like a heavy one. In air freight you are always charged the greater of actual weight and volumetric weight: the chargeable weight.
How it is calculated
The volume of the package is divided by a conversion factor set by the carrier and the service. In general air cargo the most common factor is equivalent to dividing cubic centimeters by 6,000; courier services usually apply a stricter divisor, which produces higher volumetric weights. The exact factor is in your quote, and it is worth reading.
When it hits you importing from China
Whenever your goods are bulky relative to their weight: textiles, plastics, furniture, packaging full of air. There the air option gets expensive fast and sea freight deserves a look even with the longer transit. It also works in reverse: optimizing packaging at origin can lower the chargeable weight without touching the product.
The common mistake
Budgeting air freight with the scale weight. If your cargo is bulky, the weight you will pay is another one, and the difference can break the product’s margin. Before quoting, have the real dimensions of every package, not just the kilos.
Send us weight and dimensions and we tell you what fits: air, sea or a combination. Write to us.
